Micro-assignments

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What are micro-assignments?

Micro-assignments are low risk, short-term or part-time collaboration opportunities, often associated with a single project or task.

Approaching these temporary moves with a collaborative One APS mindset is a key principle of the APS Mobility Framework.

The Digital Profession ran a 5 month mobility pilot called oneAPS Opportunities which enabled digital staff across the APS to undertake micro-assignments. It was inspired by gig economy models such as AirTasker. Participants found micro-assignments were easy compared to traditional recruitment.

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There are many ways to approach a micro-assignment.

Employees can move locations or it can be completed remotely.

The supervisor and employee will agree on what works best for them
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A caldendar showing two months with a legend that shows days marked white are regular duites while days marked blue are micro-assignments

Ness is Raj's Manager. She has heard in one-on-one catchups with him that he would like to explore other parts of government and use his coding skills now and then. 
If it appears the move carries a higher level of risk, it may be more appropriate to use another type of mobility such as a secondment. See Mobility Fundamentals.

Even though micro-assignments are low risk moves, it is still important to work through the following considerations:

  • Who will pay the employee’s salary for the duration of the move?
  • Who will sign off on leave requests?
  • Who will be responsible for performance reviews?
  • Will the employee’s salary advancement be affected?
  • Is the employee’s security clearance current and adequate for the role?
  • Which agency will fund any necessary training and development?
  • Does the temporary move create any conflicts of interest?
  • How will communication occur between host and home agency?
  • What onboarding processes are required, for example building and system access?
  • Which agency is responsible for workplace health and safety?

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Related

Guidance for HR practitioners
Guidance for managers
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